This is the center of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the largest church in the corld and the home of the Pope. It gets its name for the alleged burial site of the Apostle Simon, called Peter, after he was martyred by the Romans. A basillica was built on the spot in the 4th Century by Constantine the Great. But after many centuries, it fell into mis-repain and it wasn't until the 16th century (1500s) that the basillica was rebuilt. It took 120 years and numerous artisans left their mark, including Bramante and Michelangelo. The final part was of course the great dome. The interior was worked on by Bernini amongst others.

The Basillica can be see before St, Peters Square, also designed in part by Michelangelo. The vatican is actually a seperate state. This was put in writing during the rule of Benito Mussolini in the 1920s.

Today, millions come from around the world to see the great basillica and its art treasures, and of course to seek audience with the pontiff.